Tu BiShvat is the Jewish New Year for trees. It is a reminder of our interdependence with nature and our responsibility to be active stewards of our earth. While we are acutely aware of the need for a massive reduction in carbon emissions to prevent climate disaster and safeguard life, it can be difficult to know where to start or what will make an important difference. 
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We believe that our Jewish and human values mandate action.
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We know that cities contribute 70% of the carbon put into our atmosphere.
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We believe that the City of Seattle, with our innovative culture; love of mountains, water, and trees; and vibrant economy is ripe to take the lead in demonstrating how cities can make change locally that has impact globally!
As Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr said in 1963, “We are now faced with the fact that tomorrow is today. We are confronted with the fierce urgency of now. In this unfolding conundrum of life and history there ‘is’ such a thing as being too late. This is no time for apathy or complacency. This is a time for vigorous and positive action.”
A collective of Seattle Jewish communal organizations and leaders have collaborated this year to create The Urgency of Now: Seattle’s Jewish Climate Festival — a series of events over several weeks to inspire, educate and energize. Anyone in the wider community is welcome to participate in any (or all!) of these activities. Most sign ups will take place on the website of the organization that’s coordinating each event, but you do not need to affiliated with that organization to participate. Events are offered by Kavana Cooperative, Congregation Beth Shalom, Moishe House Seattle, JConnect, Temple Beth Am, Kol HaNeshamah, Temple De Hirsch Sinai and Limmud Seattle, with more coming soon!